Protocol for the systematic review and network meta-analysis of open versus video-assisted and robotic-assisted thymectomy for the treatment of thymic neoplasms

Abstract The surgical management of thymic neoplasms includes open and minimally invasive approaches. Previous studies have compared these techniques, but application in practice remains varied. This systematic review network meta-analysis (NMA) will adhere to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) checklist. MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Centrale Scopus be searched from inception perform a review, NMA evidence appraisal using Grading Recommendations Assessment, Development Evaluations Confidence Network methodologies. Randomized controlled trials cohort included. Full texts any citation included if they assessed minimum two arms type thymectomy technique, including open, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, or robotic-assisted surgery thymectomy, treatment such as thymoma, carcinoma neuroendocrine tumors with without myasthenia gravis. Studies assessing operative techniques benign disease excluded. Short- long-term perioperative safety oncologic outcomes between versus neoplasms. Risk Bias In Non-Randomized Studies—of Interventions tool used assess risk bias nonrandomized studies. We conduct frequentist fixed- random-effects graph theory approach each outcome. Summary odds ratios estimated all dichotomous their 95% confidence interval.